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Using Condolence Cards

Simple suggestions for condolence cards can help you easily express your sympathy

By Heidi Crossman
It is easy to be intimidated by condolence cards because of the situation surrounding the need for the card. Using condolence cards can be a lot easier if you know sympathy card etiquette. Condolence cards should be sent to someone at the loss of a loved one, during a difficult life change, after an accident or for any other time of grief. Send a sympathy card to show you care and are compassionate for the person's loss.

Sympathy cards should be handwritten whenever possible. Condolence ecards should only be sent in extenuating circumstances. The object is to make the card comforting and as personal as possible. To do this, think about the bereaved's situation before you begin writing.

1. Include positive statements about the person's character or personality in the sympathy card.

2. Write positive statements about the person's achievements.

3. Share a good memory or funny story about the person.

 

Buy a condolence card that fits with the situation

With many cards to choose from, finding a card will not be difficult. Finding the perfect card, though, might take some deeper searching. The perfect card will help you express comfort in the situation.
Try: Easily find a card suitable for the situation at Greeting Card Universe. The sympathy cards are categorized into sections. You can find cards for divorce, loss of a child, loss of a pet and others by selecting the appropriate category. At Botanical PaperWorks you can get a truly unique card. Their plantable card has seeds to grow flowers that can be a lasting comfort.

Seek well-written examples to help when writing your sympathy card message

Sometimes you need more help coming up with what to say in the message of your card. From examples, you can find wording ideas to help you get started. Note how carefully written the examples are and follow suit with your own condolences. You can buy condolence cards at a retailer or online.
Try: Sample Letter of Sympathy has many examples from which you can glean wording ideas for your card. Memorial Keepsakes has examples for several different types of messages. Knowing what not to say is as important as knowing what to say. Grace Designs helps by sharing things that are better left unsaid.

Address the condolence card properly

Now that the message is written, addressing the card appropriately is the last step before sending. Since condolence cards show respect and formality, they should also be formally addressed.
Try: Lighthouse Publications helps with how to address the recipient and yourself in a condolence card. Go to iloveindia.com for more tips on addressing your card.

 

  • Sympathy ecards can be sent if timeliness is a factor. Otherwise, handwritten cards should be sent within two weeks.
  • If a length of time has passed and you have not sent your sympathies, send a condolence card anyway. It is better to send one later than never at all. Often, the most difficult time for the bereaved comes after things have slowed down, and a special card will be cherished at that time.

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